May is Motorcycle Awareness Month

Whether you are on a motorcycle, driving a car or hauling a semi, motorcycle awareness month applies to everybody on the road. Across the US, states are reminding motorists and motorcyclists to “Watch for Motorcycles” in an effort to prevent accidents, injuries and deaths.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration offers the following tips to motorists on how to avoid mishaps with motorcycles:

The same rights apply to motorcycles as they do to any other vehicle on the road, motorcycles should be allowing the full width of a lane at all times

When changing lanes or merging with traffic, always use signals

Motorcycles are small, check all mirrors and blind spots for motorcycles before changing lanes or merging with traffic, at intersections make sure to double-check your blind spots

Never drive distracted or impaired

Motorcycles are also responsible for their safety and the safety of those around them and should follow these steps:

Wear a DOT-approved helmet and other protective gear, including gloves and boots

Obey all traffic laws and make sure you are properly licensed in your state